Jannik Sinner number 1 in tennis, Stefanos Tsitsipas: “I expected it.”

An unstoppable rise, which did not surprise even his colleagues and rivals.

Jannik Sinner è the No. 1 in world tennis, having topped the ATP rankings on the sidelines of Roland Garros by overtaking a holy monster like Novak Djokovic. An unprecedented feat for an Italian tennis player, but one that did not surprise either insiders or the formidable South Tyrolean’s own colleagues. And among the latter stands out Stefanos Tsitsipas, one of his very first recurring opponents at a high level.

"I remember when I faced him for the first time, in Rome,‖ Tsitsipas told the microphones of 'ATP Media' talking about the Sinner of the beginnings. He was skinny, a guy without muscles but with great talent. And who was able to get on the court and play tennis without fear, and free mentally".

Tsitsipas currently remains ahead in his clashes with Sinner (6-3), but in his interview he explained how he already understood his opponent's fate at the time. "At that time I was in the ATP Top 10, and I was having one of the best periods of my career,” he recalled. “I managed to beat him 6-3, 6-2, but it was not easy. Right away I thought he would make the Top 10 someday. I didnò t imagine, however; that he would succeed so soon, and now è number 1. With his results to prove his worth".

On Tuesday, moreover, Jannik Sinner won his first match as number 1 on the ATP circuit by beating Tallon Griekspoor in three sets and a comeback at the ATP tournament in Halle. "Playing as number 1 è nice, but I still want to keep improving. I am happy with how the match went, I stayed on the court a lot and I feel good", he said after the match.